Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
[quote user="BRAKIE"] This layout would work for me minis the third inter curve..In fact IF I had the space I would build this layout.[:D] <A href="http://www.gatewaynmra.org/layouts/gcrr2.jpg">http://www.gatewaynmra.org/layouts/gcrr2.jpg</A>   Guys,Do recall switching layouts isn't everybody's cup of tea..I will be the first to admit switching layouts can become boring even when properly design..I speak from years of experience since 98% of my layouts has been switching layouts. [/quote] A 4 X 8 is plenty big for a complex switching layout OR a generous continuous running layout.  But can it do both?  When you are designing a 4 X 8 layout...this does "assume" that the creators have limited space and perhaps capital to build the railway.  With that in mind...you can accomplish some switching, continuous running AND have enough room for big engines and  trains if properly designed. Create a large oval the length of the benchwork (8 ft) and insert a diagonal reverse section inside it. You can raise part of the roadbed (perhaps the rear side when facing the front) but keep the grade very mild.    Then, on one end of the 8 ft. oval, put a curved inner "siding" connected between turnout tracks.  This allows the trains to turn all the way around (from the reverse diagonal) and then to go back the other way, you can park the train on the curved siding and run the engine back around to couple the rear of the train and drive in the other direction.  To hide the "round about" nature of this design, scenery comes in to play, you can cover the siding and the outer curve with a large mountain/tunnel.  The other curve can be covered the same way, or you build a town or an industry in front of it. There will be enough area off the diagonal and oval for spur tracks.  Spur tracks can lead to industrys (preferably a pickup emptys/ drop off industry).  Clever placement of magnetic uncouplers will allow cars to be shunted. Then, just when you think the track plan is "final"...at one end of the large oval, remember to put a turnout track instead of a regular curve track.  The straight track of the turnout piece goes right off the edge of the layout....where to?  Well, in the future , if you get to expand your empire, this piece can bridge another benchwork section.  And with another section, you could create another reverse loop, therefore making the the turn-around train operation completely automatic. Also, there is PLENTY of left over space for structures and detailing.  If you really want to get a realistic railway atmosphere a 4 X 8 space to cover with ground foams, lichen and various details will provide you weeks or months  of creative building ideas. Note: The curves should be close to 22" or 44" diameter. This allows large locomotives to run and hopefully (what I intend to buy) the new highly detailed Rapido passenger cars (which say will run on 18" radius!).  Obviously, some brands of passenger cars won't run on 22", but a 4 X 8 does mean some compromises. Regards, Tom M.
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!

Subscriber & Member Login

Edit post

Post Body

Tags (Optional)

Subscriber & Member Login

Users Online

Search the Community